In recent years, our society has witnessed a cultural awakening. From the MeToo movement to the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, we have seen wrongdoers being called out and held accountable. Now, Oprah Winfrey, a beloved figure in the media industry, is facing criticism for her interview with Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen that recently resurfaced.
The interview, which took place in 2004 when the Olsen twins were just seventeen years old and allegedly struggling with an eating disorder, has caused quite a stir on the internet. Oprah has found herself having to defend her line of questioning after the video went viral. Child stars often face unique challenges, and this interview shed light on the difficulties they had to endure.
During the interview, Oprah, who was fifty years old at the time, directly asked the girls about the rumors surrounding their eating disorder. She even tactlessly inquired about their sizes. Mary-Kate, who was grappling with her disorder, had to face these uncomfortable questions on national television.
Oprah began the conversation by acknowledging some rumors that had upset the twins. The girls hesitated, unsure of which rumor Oprah was referring to. It was then that Oprah bluntly asked about the speculation regarding their eating habits. Ashley, in a protective sisterly manner, stepped in to defend Mary-Kate, acknowledging that people will always have something to say, whether it be about their weight or any other aspect of their lives.
Unfazed by Ashley’s response, Oprah proceeded to ask, “What size are you, by the way?” Mary-Kate and Ashley were taken aback by the question, clearly uncomfortable with discussing their bodies in such a public manner. Mary-Kate mustered the courage to reply that she was always petite. Oprah’s sarcastic response, “Oh, that’s so interesting!” further added to the awkwardness of the situation.
It is important to note that Oprah herself has been open about her own struggles with weight over the years. She even became a spokesperson for Weight Watchers, using the program to manage her weight. Nevertheless, her question came across as insensitive, especially given Mary-Kate’s subsequent admission to entering a rehabilitation center for treatment of anorexia. This revelation made Oprah’s line of questioning appear even more thoughtless and lacking empathy.
The resurfacing of this interview has shocked many viewers, prompting them to question Oprah’s approach. People have expressed their disapproval, wondering how such a line of questioning could have been deemed appropriate, considering the young age of the Olsen twins. The times have changed, and what was once considered acceptable may no longer hold true.
What are your thoughts on Oprah’s interview and her question about body size? Let us know in the comments below.
